When the Tides Held the Moon by Venessa Vida Kelley is a mesmerizing debut that intertwines historical fiction, fantasy, and queer romance into a poignant narrative set in early 20th-century New York. With richly developed characters, lyrical prose, and evocative illustrations, Kelley crafts a tale that delves deep into themes of identity, love, and liberation.
🌊 Plot Overview: A Tale of Captivity and connection
Set in 1911, the story follows Benigno “Benny” Caldera, a Puerto Rican blacksmith striving to find his place in New York City. When commissioned to build an iron tank for Luna Park, Benny unwittingly constructs a cage for a merman named Río, captured from the East River. As Benny becomes part of the Luna Park community, he forms a deep bond with Río, leading to a profound exploration of freedom, belonging, and love.
🎭 Characters: Depth and Diversity
- Benigno “Benny” Caldera: An orphaned blacksmith whose journey reflects the struggles of immigrants seeking acceptance and purpose.
- Río: A merman whose captivity and interactions with Benny challenge perceptions of humanity and freedom.
- Luna Park Performers: A diverse ensemble of characters who create a found family for Benny, each with their own Stories and dreams.
🎨 Illustrations: Visual Storytelling
Kelley enhances the narrative with 27 detailed illustrations, using aqua blue and black inks. These artworks, including full-color endpapers and designed chapter headers, immerse readers in the world of Luna Park and the emotional depths of the story.
💬 Critical Acclaim
The novel has garnered praise for its storytelling and thematic depth:
- Publishers Weekly: Described it as a “captivating and perfectly balanced blend of history, fantasy, and good old-fashioned carnival magic.”
- Library Journal: Highlighted its unique narrative, stating it “will stand tall in its own right on any shelf.”
- TJ Klune: Praised Kelley’s talent, noting the book as “a feast for the senses.”
🧭 Themes: Exploring Identity and Liberation
The novel delves into:
- Found Family: Benny’s integration into the Luna Park community showcases the importance of chosen families.
- Cultural Identity: Benny’s Puerto Rican heritage is intricately woven into the narrative, highlighting the immigrant experience.
- Queer Love: The evolving relationship between Benny and Río offers a tender exploration of same-sex love in a historical context.
- Freedom vs. Captivity: Río’s imprisonment serves as a metaphor for societal constraints, prompting reflections on autonomy and liberation.
📚 Conclusion: A Must-Read Debut
When the Tides Held the Moon stands out as a beautifully crafted tale that resonates with readers on multiple levels. Kelley’s fusion of art and prose creates an immersive experience, making it a noteworthy addition to contemporary literature.
Also Read: The Staircase in the Woods: By Chuck Wendig (Book Review)
